I'm looking for a restaurant for this Sunday for dinner with my husband and 2 older teenage children. Not looking for fine dining, but would like good food in a nice atmosphere. Preferrably right in town.

Hi KathyK,

Most of the restaurants in Niagara on the Lake, even the more casual places, still have dinner menus that you would probably deem "fine dining".
The Buttery and the Epicurean would be a good choice for lunch though.

But The Olde Angel Inn and Pub does have pub fare in a fun atmosphere which would likely work for the four of you. (angel-inn.com)

As well, the Shaw Cafe and Wine Bar has more casual meals and is downtown too. (shawcafe.ca)

For something a little more upscale but with a very wide range of menu items, you might want to have a look at Ristorante Giardino.
(gatehouse-niagara.com)

Hope that helps.

Also consider Zee's and Pillar and Post... the food is not as exotic and good

The theatre critic for the Toronto Star did a series on restaurants in Niagara on the Lake and Stratford at the beginning of the season. He said after years of attending the theatre in both places, he felt he could qualify as a bit of an expert. He has travelled extensively in Europe and spends much time in New York and LA too.

The Ristorante Giardino was on his recommended list, with more moderate prices than the winery restaurants.

Of the restaurants he recommended in Stratford and Niagara that I have been, all of his reviews were accurate so I think you would have an enjoyable experience there...most kids love pasta.

Of course at the top of the list were Peller Estates and Hillebrand Winery restaurants and The Charles Inn, none of which would be suitable for your needs.

One other possibility for you might be The Stone Road Grille (stoneroadgrille.com) but it depends on how adventurous your teens are with dining. There is nothing worse than having someone stare at a menu and say, "I don't see anything I like." Check their website and if it appeals to them at all, I'd say it would be perfect for all of you since it's casual but fabulous. Plan on calling for reservations though, as it's busy even this time of the year.

The bar at the Queens Landing in as well as the bar at the Riverbend Inn both of great food and a nice atmosphere - very elegant and not like your typical bar. There's also the bar at the Oban Inn which is a big locals hang out.

Hi Kathy,

Also look at The Anchorage (aka The New Italian Place), across from the marina, a five minute walk from the main drag. Nice atmosphere and menu that will please all tastes.

JQ